As the party drew to a close and the guests began to trickle out, each one offering congratulations and warm wishes, Della felt the night's energy begin to fade. She smiled and nodded politely, all while feeling the day settle into her shoulders. The ballroom that had once been alive with music and laughter was now quieter, the twinkling lights dimming as the crowd slowly dispersed.
Emily's mother, Mrs. Adley, gently tugged at Della's arm, guiding her away from the remaining guests. "Come, my dear. Let's get you out of that gown," she said, her tone soft and affectionate. Della followed, her heart heavy, as they made their way down a long, dimly lit hallway and into the changing room.
The changing room was a cozy, intimate space, a world apart from the splendor of the ballroom. Soft golden light glowed from an elegant chandelier above, casting warm dimness across the plush velvet seating and embellish mirrors that lined the walls. The air was scented with a hint of fresh flowers, a delicate fragrance that mingled with the faint smell of perfume and powder. A large vanity table was tucked into the corner, cluttered with brushes, cosmetics, and an assortment of delicate hairpins and jewelry. Racks of gowns and garments hung neatly on one side, their silks and satins shimmering under the light.
Della stepped inside, the soft carpet muffling her footsteps as she moved toward the center of the room. She caught a glimpse of herself in one of the mirrors-her dress still perfect, the makeup and hair still in place.
Mrs. Adley closed the door behind them, her eyes meeting Della's in the mirror's reflection. "Let's get you comfortable, dear. It's been a long night," she said with a smile that was both gentle and knowing. As she began to undo the buttons on Della's gown, she continued, "You've done wonderfully tonight. You made it look so effortless."
Della's fingers brushed the cool fabric of her dress as she felt it loosen around her shoulders. The room felt both comforting and suffocating, the quiet allowing all her worries to resurface. She knew she would have to face her truth eventually, but for now, she was grateful for the fleeting moment of peace the changing room offered-a brief sanctuary before the storm she feared would come.
"I've got you a gift, darling-something very precious," Mrs. Adley said with a twinkle in her eye. Della's curiosity piqued as she paused, momentarily distracted from her thoughts. *What could be the surprise?* she wondered. After all, the dress alone had been more than she could have ever imagined-a gown so elegant and expensive, it was worth more than twice the rent of her modest apartment. It was a luxury she had never thought she would experience.
"What gift, Mother?" Della asked, trying to mask her curiosity with a polite smile.
Mrs. Adley's eyes sparkled as she retrieved a sleek, expensive-looking suitcase from the corner of the room. "I'm sure Hunter hasn't informed you, has he?" she teased, her smile growing wider. Della's heart thudded with anticipation as she watched Mrs. Adley carefully set the suitcase on the vanity table.
With a flourish, Mrs. Adley unlatched the case and slowly lifted the lid, revealing its contents. Inside, nestled among layers of soft satin, was an exquisite set of lingerie-delicate lace in shades of ivory and champagne, adorned with tiny pearls and knotty embroidery. The fabric was impossibly soft, and the craftsmanship was nothing short of breathtaking.
Della's breath caught in her throat as she stared at the pieces, her cheeks warming as the realization dawned. The lingerie was both elegant and sensual, each piece designed to fit her perfectly. She could feel the heat creeping up her neck, unsure of how to react. She had never owned anything so intimate, so luxurious.
Mrs. Adley's smile softened as she placed a gentle hand on Della's shoulder. "This is a little something for your wedding night. Hunter wanted everything to be perfect for you, my dear." Her voice was warm and reassuring, but Della could feel the pressure behind the gesture-the expectation that came with this new life she had agreed to enter.
Della's fingers brushed over the delicate lace, and for a moment, she felt overwhelmed. The evening and the emotions she had been holding back swelled within her. The lingerie was beautiful, an image of the life she was supposed to embrace, yet it felt like another reminder of the pretense she was living.
"Thank you, Mother," Della whispered, forcing a smile as she tried to steady her breathing. "It's... it's beautiful." She hoped her gratitude sounded genuine, even as the knot in her stomach tightened.